Years before, aliens had joined with Jan Darzek to save humanity (see our review of ALL THE COLORS OF DARKNESS). Now they call on him to save their galactic society. Someone or something is systematically destroying their entire, multi-species civilization. The great computer that serves as the hub of government activities, pulls Darzek from its databases and instructs its deputies to put him on the job. Before Darzek can start, however, his allies are killed or scattered. Now he, together with his loyal secretary, must save the galaxy.
This is truly classic SF space opera. Still, when Lloyd Biggle, Jr. (see more BooksForABuck.com reviews of novels by Biggle) writes it, the reader can expect something different. WATCHERS OF THE DARK does not disappoint. A subtle humor prevaids this work as Darzek explores a Star Wars-like group of exotic species, and learns the truth of 'the dark.' Appropriately as Darzek is a private detective, there is a mystery to solve--the mystery of who would do such a thing, how they could benefit, and how to stop them before they reach the galactic center and the world-computer.
More so than in most classic Science Fiction, Biggle examines the relationships among people (both human and non-human). Biggle is one of the lost authors of the 1960s--a great oversight.
Too generous? Too stingy. Or did I miss the whole point? Send your comments to publisher@booksforabuck.com. I'll publish the best letters I get so let me know if I can use your name.